Mr. ORLANDO BHUNGENI | Geographic Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr. ORLANDO BHUNGENI, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Orlando Bhungeni is an Environmental Scientist with extensive expertise in geo and environmental sciences. Currently pursuing an MSc in Geo and Environmental Sciences at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Orlando holds a BSc Hons in Environmental Monitoring and Modelling from the University of South Africa and a BSc in Environmental Studies from Walter Sisulu University. He has served as a Senior Demonstrator at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, where he excelled in GIS teaching and practical exercises. His previous roles include Quality Controller for the City of Cape Town Metro Municipality, Research Assistant at the Risk and Vulnerability Science Centre, and Environmental Manager Intern at Eastern Cape Parks & Tourism Agency. Additionally, Orlando has experience as a Forklift Operator and Educator. His diverse background includes managing environmental projects, stakeholder engagement, and technical support in GIS and data analysis. Fluent in English, IsiXhosa, and IsiZulu, he is committed to advancing environmental science through both practical and academic contributions.

Professional Profile:

Summary of Suitability for Best Researcher Award

Orlando Bhungeni is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award based on his extensive research contributions, academic background, and practical experience in environmental science. Here’s a detailed evaluation:

Education 🎓

• MSc – Master of Science in Geo and Environmental Sciences
  University of KwaZulu Natal
  Jan 2023 – Present
• BSc Hons in Environmental Monitoring and Modelling
  University of South Africa
  2019 – 2021
• BSc Environmental Studies
  Walter Sisulu University
  2011 – 2014
• Grade 12
  Ganizulu Senior Secondary
  2008 – 2010

Languages 🗣️

• English
• IsiXhosa
• IsiZulu

Professional Experience 💼

• Senior Demonstrator
  University of KwaZulu Natal
  Feb 2023 – Nov 2023
  • Designed and prepared practical exercises for GIS.
  • Led demonstrations on GIS concepts and tools.
  • Provided support during lab sessions and evaluated student work.
• Quality Controller
  City of Cape Town Metro Municipality
  Mar 2022 – Jan 2023
  • Coordinated stakeholder engagement and environmental education.
  • Managed EPWP projects for alien invasive plant control.
  • Ensured compliance with environmental and safety legislation.
• Research Assistant
  Risk and Vulnerability Science Centre
  Dec 2021 – Feb 2022
  • Managed and analyzed field survey data.
  • Co-authored scientific papers and assisted with operational plans.
• Environmental Manager (Intern)
  Eastern Cape Parks & Tourism Agency
  Jan 2021 – Dec 2021
  • Assisted with EIA, BARs, and EMPs projects.
  • Coordinated environmental awareness and stakeholder engagement.
  • Conducted ecological monitoring and data collection.

Publication top Notes: